Military Coups in Africa – What’s Happening Now

When talking about military coups, sudden, often forceful overthrows of a government by armed forces. Also known as coup d'état, it typically shakes the political order and can trigger a cascade of changes in law, economy and society.

One of the biggest side‑effects is political instability, a state where government authority is challenged or weakened. This instability military coups often create, making it harder for citizens and businesses to plan ahead. Another close partner is a constitutional crisis, a situation where the legal framework can’t resolve a power dispute. When a coup ignores or suspends the constitution, the country faces a vacuum that can last weeks or months. Finally, the global community usually reacts with international sanctions, economic or diplomatic penalties imposed by other nations or bodies. These sanctions aim to pressure the coup leaders, but they also affect ordinary people, creating a tricky balance between political goals and humanitarian needs.

Why military coups matter for African governance

Understanding how these three elements interact helps you see the bigger picture. A coup (subject) creates political instability (object) and often leads to a constitutional crisis (object). In turn, the crisis draws international sanctions (object), which can either deter further military action or exacerbate economic hardship. This chain of cause‑and‑effect shows why each coup is more than a single event; it reshapes governance, influences regional security and alters foreign investment patterns. African countries with a history of coups tend to see slower economic growth, higher risk premiums on bonds, and a rise in internal displacement. Conversely, nations that quickly restore constitutional order and negotiate limited sanctions can bounce back faster, as seen in recent examples from West Africa.

Below you’ll find a curated selection of the latest stories that touch on these dynamics – from on‑the‑ground reports of power shifts to expert analyses of sanctions policy. Whether you’re tracking a specific country, comparing regional trends, or looking for insight on how coups affect everyday life, the articles ahead give you the facts and context you need.